In the heart of the city, Chester, Pennsylvania Local 1400 Secretary Donyé Price stands out as a symbol of empowerment and change. As the city’s first black female firefighter, Price broke stereotypes and paved the way for future generations.
“Chester is my hometown, and my children were all educated here,” she said.
Price’s journey began nine years ago when she joined the fire department, determined to serve her community. She was a pioneer alongside three other pioneers in her class. Together, they made history, transforming the face of the fire service and opening doors for the women of Chester.
With the recent launch of her new book, “Girls Can Be Firefighters Too!” “, Price continues to break barriers. As a mother of three, she wanted to light a fire of inspiration in her own children.
“I never planned to be an author, but seeing my son, who was nonverbal until he was four, learn to read sparked the idea,” she said. “I wanted to create a book that we could enjoy together and motivate his reading journey. »
Inspired by her own experiences and interactions with children within her community, Price’s journey as an author began with a desire to challenge misconceptions and inspire confidence in young minds.
The little boys said, “You’re a fake firefighter, girls can’t be firefighters.” “I was struggling to write a book to speak to these kids and even adults and let them know that girls can, in fact, be firefighters.
Donyé Price, Chester, PA Local 1400 Secretary
Reflecting on a recent book signing, Local 1400 President Edward Reilly, Jr. shared a heartwarming moment with his daughter, who immediately engaged with the book by reading it aloud. “Donyé’s book should inspire all little girls to follow their dreams if they want to pursue a career in firefighting. I encourage everyone to buy the book and read it to their children.
Price’s impact extends beyond the pages of his book. In 2023, a mural dedicated to Price debuted in Chester Park, celebrating her pioneering role and dedication to community service.
Her story is now a beacon of inspiration for aspiring firefighters, especially young girls who may feel limited by traditional gender roles.
“I want young girls, in particular, to imagine themselves in whatever role they admire, regardless of gender stereotypes,” she said. “We can break down barriers, and it doesn’t require adopting masculine traits. You can be feminine and still excel in traditionally male-dominated fields like firefighting. Your abilities are not defined by gender.
